MJ confirms converts to Islam

Published: Tuesday, February 27, 2007, 22:14 [IST]

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Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Michael Jackson has confirmed his conversion to Islam, according to reports in the Middle East. The Arab-Israeli newspaper Panorama claims Jackson has announced the move and revealed plans to move to Bahrain, where he has bought property. The singer's Muslim brother Jernaube has claimed the Thriller singer had taken interest in the religion since he converted in 1989 - and had been considering converting himself following his acquittal on child abuse charges in 2005.

Jermaine said, "When I came back from Mecca I got him (Michael) a lot of books and he asked me lots of things about my religion and I told him that it's peaceful and beautiful. "He read everything and he was proud of me that I found something that would give me inner strength and peace. "I think it is most probable that Michael will convert to Islam. "He could do so much, just like I am trying to do. Michael and I and the word of God, we could do so much."

Michael Jackson is reforming the Jackson 5, it has been claimed. The eccentric singer is said to have been visited in Las Vegas by his brothers, Jackie, Jermaine, Tito and Marlon, who put forward the idea of getting the band back together for a tour. Michael's sisters Janet and Rebbie, and his other brother Randy - who was part of the Jacksons - were also at the family reunion and are keen on joining their siblings for a Jackson family tour. US gossip columnist Roger Friedman said: "A successful Jackson family tour could change everything for Michael. It would also be a financial boon for the whole family. The tour idea also works for Janet, whose last two albums have been huge disappointments.

"The idea of Michael and Janet performing a couple of duets, or Janet's brothers backing her on her own hits would be a tantalising prospect." Michael has been desperate to re-launch his career since being acquitted of child sex charges in 2005. He was previously in talks about a live residency at a major Las Vegas hotel and casino but the negotiations have since stalled.